Quality sound usually comes at a price. But while RHA’s SA950is won’t win any beauty awards, their audio output blows away similarly-priced opposition.

Retailing for £49.99, the SAH950is incorporate 40mm titanium drivers which deliver a performance on par with headphones twice their price.

Thumping bass is immediately noticeable with almost no distortion, and remains effective even when the amplitude is well beyond normal listening volumes.

Thumping: The bass is loud yet remains distortion-free even at high volumes

Treble has been tailored to deal with the substantial low end thump, and generally performs well.

However, the frequency response is not wholly effective over all music genres.

The result is that the SA950is work wonders on hip hop and pop music, but some classic and techno beats sometimes sound deeper than intended.

Aesthetically, the SA950is are a mixed bag. Although very light, weighing in at just 105kg, there’s a clear focus on practically over out-and-out style.

The ear cups are comfortable and well-padded, encouraging long-term use – but the quality of the leather is in no way premium.

This, coupled with their glossy plastic shell and thin metal headband attachment, hints at where RHA have tried to keep the costs down.

There are some clever touches, though. The cable, for example, is coated in a braided fabric which stops it from getting tangled, and an inline remote and microphone allows you to adjust volume, change tracks and answer phone calls.

The SA950is are also hardware friendly, compatible with both Android and Apple devices.

This, coupled with their wallet-friendly price point, make the SA950is a perfect gift this Christmas.